Beoplay S3 or Beolab 4000?

I'm looking for a pair of computer speakers, and have narrowed the choice to a stereo pair of S3, or BL 4000s.  If it seems like a ridiculous comparison, the prices for both speakers (new S3s, used BL 4000) have fallen to ridiculous levels, so the comparison is a little more valid.

Has anyone heard both speakers, and have any thoughts or comments?  Which would you buy, and why?

4000 = iconic

S3 = possibly a longer life

As I have never heard an S3 I can’t say if I liked its sound

I did like the 4000 but did not buy it ... ended up with cheaper 2nd hand 6000s that I later added an upstream BeoLab 11 to

The S3 look more of a "computer speakers" (sizewise) than the 4000!

The 4000 are a lot more... intrusive on a desktop.

But did you also look at the BL4 "PC"?

 

Beolab 4000 = repairable

S3 = maybe the same Beoplay planned obsolescence as Beoplay A1, A2 etc., Bluetooth- and Line-In Problems according to some forum members. Please search for the S3 threads. You can place them easily everywhere and the interchangeable covers are nice.

Sound = judge with your own ears on neutral sound settings.

TWG:

Beolab 4000 = repairable

...but mostly at high costs - earlier ones tend to have problems with the foam inside (often described in the forum).

MM

I have both the 4000s and S3. I absolutely my 4000s but the S3 pumps

out some killer sound for the size. I would definitely pick a pair of S3s for use with a computer. I have considered that for my office computer, just haven't pulled trigger on buying an extra pair yet.

S3 may be ok if connected over usb, if you intend a line in connection then I find it to have an unnatural bass boost which is not affected by any onboard or app controls (they only apply to digital connections). 

Please demo before you buy for an analogue in application.

The S3s have the advantage of fitting on a desk better, and being newer, less prone to needing service. But, for me personally it'd have to be the BL4000s if I had the room on the desk. To my eye, they have always been truly beautiful and graceful, in addition to sounding very good for a small speaker. I'd even go for the 4000s and have the foam updated and any repairs made, they are such iconic David Lewis designs.